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What size subwoofer to get?

This question is for 2 channel stereo use 50/50 rock/classical music. I have floor standing speakers rated down to 35hz on axis and instead of getting expensive larger speaker want to look at adding "powered" subwoofer to slightly extend bass. Three models are available:
10" woofer 30hz
12" woofer 25hz
15" woofer 22hz
All these models have adjustable crossover frequency cut-off
50-150 as well as adjustable volume. What size is best to get, my concern is getting too much bass that is hard to dail back and becomes overwhelming. Or is it better to get largest subwoofer and not worry, volume control will be able to effectively tailor sound and control bass?

This is my first subwoofer so need some general advice from members who use them, thanks.
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Showing 3 responses by gunbei

gunbei
2,327 posts
 
Peter, I would think having the additional ability to pick different roll off slopes would allow you to better blend the sub especially if you have a dip or a hump at or around the crossover frequency.

A question to Rives. I've been thinking of building two subs to be powered by a Bryston 4B in stereo mode for music and dual mono from the LFE output for HT. You mentioned that having the ability to vary the placement of two separate subs independently can avoid some of the limitations of only using a single sub. Is this assuming they will be reproducing identical mono signals? If the two are placed in radically different schemes how will this affect their ability to operate in a stereo set up? Thanks.
gunbei
2,327 posts
 
Thanks very much for the response Rives. If I were to use two stereo subs set up on opposite SIDE walls would that be an example of what you're suggesting? Does it matter if they are downfiring or front firing aimed at each other? Because of space limitations I currently have a single mono sub on one of the side walls, but I'm finding that my sitting position is too close to the sub and I lose all the lowest octaves. I was thinking of adding a second sub on the opposite side wall, then moving them closer to the corner behind the main speakers until it sounds fuller. Right now for music the sub is tight and musical but lacks bottom end ooomph. However, for HT I'm happy with it.
gunbei
2,327 posts
 
Sean my experience coincides with your advice. I am using ProAc Response 1SC monitors which probably extend down to 40Hz at the most. But I find I must set my Paradigm X30 to it's lowest setting of 35Hz or the excessive overlap at the crossover point begins to muddy the midrange and upper bass of the ProAcs. That's where an extra control for shaping the slope of the lowpass filter would be helpful in giving more control over the rolloff.

Rives, thanks so much for giving me the free advice. I did check your website and found lot's of helpful information. I've been reading around to become more aware of some of the often used guidelines and from there I intend to do a lot of experimenting. I just wanted to make sure I started on the right foot.
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